Ectopic Gene Expression Screening in Serum/Plasma by Probe-Based Assay
This test detects the presence of specific genes outside their normal location in your cells, using a sample of your blood (serum or plasma). It may help identify conditions where genes are abnormally expressed in unexpected tissues.
["This screening can assist in diagnosing rare genetic disorders or monitoring unusual gene activity patterns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 87380-2
- Short code
- EC stx2e gene Islt Ql NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- EC stx2e gene Islt Ql NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses a specialized probe to detect the presence of specific DNA sequences (genes) that are not typically found in your blood. These sequences may indicate abnormal gene expression in tissues like tumors, inflammation sites, or other conditions where genes are misplaced or overexpressed.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms suggestive of a genetic disorder, cancer, or other conditions where abnormal gene expression is suspected. It could also be used as part of a broader diagnostic workup for unexplained health concerns.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample (serum or plasma) is collected from a vein in your arm. The sample is then processed and analyzed in a laboratory using advanced genetic detection methods.
Common Uses and Conditions
This screening is particularly useful for detecting ectopic gene expression in conditions like certain cancers (e.g., metastatic disease), autoimmune disorders, or congenital anomalies where genes are misexpressed in non-tissue-specific locations.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Ectopic gene expression can signal underlying diseases such as cancer (where tumor cells release genes into the bloodstream), inflammatory conditions, or genetic mutations causing abnormal tissue-specific gene activity. Early detection may guide treatment decisions or monitor disease progression.
Short name
Ectopic Gene Expression Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How often will I need this test?
Are there any risks or side effects from this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy